James Van Der Beek made a surprise appearance at the Dawson’s Creek reunion after previously dropping out due to illness. Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox. I can’t believe I don’t get to see my cast mates, my beautiful cast in person. “And just I want to stand on that stage and thank every single person in the theatre for being here tonight. It’s just absolutely humbling just how much you did for this night, and I just want to say thank you.